Liverpool 2-0 Newcastle United: Five Things We Learned

Liverpool beat Newcastle 2-0 as they became the fourth side to win 300 home games in the Premier League. Here are five things we learned.

Liverpool set a new Premier League record

Liverpool have now scored in their last 22 matches against Newcastle; a Premier League record for consecutive scoring matches against the same opponent. The Reds are unbeaten in 22 league games against Newcastle at Anfield since a 0-2 defeat in April 1994.

Benitez finally tastes defeat against Liverpool

Before Saturday’s match, Rafa Benitez had not lost to Liverpool in the five times he had faced them as manager. At the sixth attempt, Liverpool finally got the better of him as his Newcastle side suffered a 2-0 defeat.

Karius continues to grow in confidence

In January, Jurgen Klopp finally made Loris Karius Liverpool’s first choice goalkeeper. He has had some shaky performances but over the past few weeks, Karius has shown why Klopp was right to have faith in him by producing some superb saves.

He tipped Marko Arnautovic’s audacious lob onto the bar against West Ham last weekend. Then against Newcastle, he denied Mo Diame whose shot seemed destined for the top corner. Liverpool’s front three usually steal all the headlines but Karius is also worthy of praise.

Newcastle can hold their heads high

Many teams have been thrashed by Liverpool this season, but not Newcastle. The Magpies have conceded just three goals across two league games against Jurgen Klopp’s side and earned a point.

Newcastle’s defensive approach against the top six has been criticised but there is only so much Benitez can do with a Championship squad. His pragmatic style could prove crucial in the fight against relegation.

Super Salah surpasses Suarez

Mohamed Salah scored his 32nd Liverpool goal against Newcastle, more goals than Luis Suarez (31) did in his best season for Liverpool. Salah’s debut season has been sensational and he is a very strong contender for PFA Player of the Year.